Why a Global Centre for Devon and Exeter

Devon has the largest land area of any county in England, with just three urban areas – Plymouth, Torbay and Exeter. Amongst its population only 0.6% are from Black and Minority Ethnic groups (BME) and most of these are concentrated in urban areas.

Many people in Devon therefore, particularly those in rural areas, have no direct experience of or contact with people from different cultural backgrounds.

Much racism in Devon stems from this lack of understanding and experience of and direct contact with people from other cultures. The Global Centre aims to provide the learning opportunities, insights and experiences necessary to overcome the ignorance and fear that leads to racism.

The Global Centre also provides an important focal point for individuals and groups in Devon who are making links with or campaigning on behalf of communities in the south/developing world.